Issues of Human Rights

What you'll learn

This guide covers all testable content on human rights issues for WJEC GCSE Religious Education. You will understand the nature and importance of human rights, religious perspectives on social justice and equality, and contemporary issues including censorship and freedom of expression. The material includes Christian and Islamic teachings alongside secular approaches to human rights.

Key terms and definitions

Human rights — Basic rights and freedoms that belong to every person in the world, from birth until death, such as the right to life, freedom from torture, and freedom of expression.

Social justice — The fair distribution of wealth, opportunities and privileges within a society, ensuring all people have equal access to resources and rights.

Equality — The state of being equal in status, rights and opportunities, treating all people fairly regardless of characteristics such as gender, race or religion.

Prejudice — Pre-judging someone based on characteristics such as race, religion, gender or sexuality, often involving negative attitudes formed without proper knowledge or examination.

Discrimination — Acting on prejudice by treating people unfairly or differently based on characteristics such as race, gender, religion or sexuality.

Censorship — The suppression or prohibition of speech, writing, or other forms of expression deemed objectionable, harmful or sensitive by authorities.

Freedom of expression — The right to express opinions and ideas without government interference or censorship, protected by Article 10 of the European Convention on Human Rights.

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) — A document adopted by the United Nations in 1948 setting out fundamental human rights to be universally protected, containing 30 articles covering civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights.

Core concepts

The nature and importance of human rights

Human rights are founded on the principle of inherent human dignity. The UDHR established a common standard for all nations, declaring that "all human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights."

Key categories of human rights include:

• Civil and political rights — freedom of speech, right to vote, right to a fair trial
• Economic and social rights — right to education, right to work, right to adequate standard of living
• Collective rights — right to self-determination, right to development

Human rights protect individuals from abuse by those in power and ensure basic standards of treatment. They are considered universal (applying to everyone), inalienable (cannot be taken away) and indivisible (all rights are equally important).

The importance of human rights:

• Protect human dignity and worth
• Prevent abuse and exploitation
• Ensure fair treatment under law
• Enable people to participate in society
• Promote peace and stability between nations

Religious attitudes to social justice and equality

Christian perspectives:

Christianity teaches that all humans are created in the image of God (imago Dei), giving everyone equal worth and dignity. This theological foundation supports human rights.

Biblical teachings on justice include:

• "Love your neighbour as yourself" (Mark 12:31) — treating others with equal respect
• The Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) — helping those in need regardless of background
• "There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus" (Galatians 3:28) — spiritual equality

Jesus showed particular concern for the marginalized, including women, children, the poor, and social outcasts. He challenged social injustices of his time.

Christian denominations have campaigned for:

• Abolition of slavery (William Wilberforce, influenced by evangelical Christianity)
• Civil rights movements (Martin Luther King Jr., Baptist minister)
• Fair trade and debt relief (CAFOD, Christian Aid)
• Sanctuary for refugees and asylum seekers

Liberation theology emphasizes God's "preferential option for the poor," arguing Christians must actively work to end oppression and inequality.

Islamic perspectives:

Islam teaches the concept of Ummah — the global community of Muslims, emphasizing brotherhood, equality and mutual responsibility.

Islamic teachings on justice and equality include:

• All humans descended from Adam and Eve, making all people equal before Allah
• "O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous" (Qur'an 49:13)
• Zakah (almsgiving) — one of the Five Pillars, requiring Muslims to give 2.5% of wealth to those in need, promoting economic justice
• Sadaqah — voluntary charity, demonstrating concern for others

The final sermon of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) declared: "All mankind is from Adam and Eve. An Arab has no superiority over a non-Arab, nor does a non-Arab have any superiority over an Arab; a white has no superiority over a black, nor does a black have any superiority over a white; none have superiority over another except by piety and good action."

Islamic Relief and Muslim Aid are examples of Muslim organizations working for social justice globally.

Both religions emphasize stewardship — humans have responsibility to care for creation and each other, promoting environmental and social justice.

Issues of prejudice and discrimination

Prejudice involves holding negative opinions without sufficient knowledge. Discrimination is acting on those prejudices, causing harm.

Common forms of discrimination:

• Racism — discrimination based on ethnicity or skin colour
• Sexism — discrimination based on gender
• Religious discrimination — treating people unfairly because of their faith
• Homophobia — prejudice against LGBTQ+ individuals
• Ageism — discrimination based on age
• Disability discrimination — unfair treatment of people with disabilities

Legal protections in the UK:

The Equality Act 2010 protects people from discrimination based on nine protected characteristics: age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation.

Religious responses to discrimination:

Christianity teaches:

• God shows no favouritism (Acts 10:34)
• Christians should challenge injustice (Micah 6:8 — "act justly, love mercy, walk humbly")
• The Golden Rule — "Do to others what you would have them do to you" (Matthew 7:12)

However, some Christians hold traditional views on gender roles and sexuality that others view as discriminatory.

Islam teaches:

• All people deserve respect as Allah's creation
• Justice is a central Islamic value
• Muslims should stand against oppression

The Qur'an states: "O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves" (4:135).

Different interpretations exist within Islam regarding gender equality and roles, particularly concerning women's rights and LGBTQ+ issues.

Freedom of religious expression

Freedom of religion includes the right to:

• Hold religious or non-religious beliefs
• Practice religion through worship and observance
• Change religion or hold no religion
• Manifest beliefs publicly and privately

This right is protected by Article 18 of the UDHR and Article 9 of the European Convention on Human Rights.

Religious symbols and dress:

Issues arise when religious expression conflicts with secular rules:

• Islamic hijab, niqab or burka in schools or workplaces
• Christian crosses worn by employees
• Sikh turbans and kirpans (ceremonial daggers)
• Jewish kippah

The European Court of Human Rights has ruled that limitations on religious dress may be acceptable when they serve legitimate aims (security, health and safety) and are proportionate.

Manifestation of belief:

Religious believers argue they should be free to:

• Refuse to provide services conflicting with beliefs (e.g., same-sex wedding services)
• Educate children according to religious values
• Organize religious gatherings and processions

Conflicts occur when religious freedom appears to clash with equality rights, anti-discrimination laws, or public order.

Christian perspectives:

• Jesus taught "Give back to Caesar what is Caesar's and to God what is God's" (Mark 12:17) — suggesting some accommodation with secular authority
• Early Christians faced persecution for refusing to worship Roman gods, establishing a tradition of standing firm in faith
• Many Christians believe religious freedom is essential for human flourishing

Islamic perspectives:

• The Qur'an states "There is no compulsion in religion" (2:256)
• Muslims believe freedom to practice Islam is essential
• The concept of Shariah (Islamic law) guides all aspects of life, making religious freedom particularly important
• Historical examples include the Constitution of Medina, which protected religious minorities

Censorship and freedom of expression

Freedom of expression allows individuals to express opinions without government interference. However, this freedom has limits.

Arguments for censorship:

• Protects national security (preventing terrorism, protecting military secrets)
• Prevents harm to children (restricting access to violent or sexual content)
• Protects public morals and decency
• Prevents hate speech and incitement to violence
• Protects religious sensibilities from blasphemy

Arguments against censorship:

• Freedom of expression is a fundamental human right
• Censorship can be used to suppress legitimate criticism
• Restricts artistic and creative freedom
• Citizens need information to make informed democratic decisions
• "Slippery slope" — difficult to determine acceptable limits

Religious perspectives on censorship:

Christians hold varied views:

• Some support restrictions on blasphemy and material offensive to Christianity
• Jesus taught love and forgiveness, suggesting tolerance of different views
• The Bible has been censored historically; many Christians value freedom to access Scripture
• Concern about protecting children from harmful content

Muslims generally believe:

• Depictions of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) are forbidden and deeply offensive
• Blasphemy against Islam should face consequences (though views vary on what consequences)
• Islamic content should be freely available
• Pornography and materials contradicting Islamic values should be restricted

Case studies:

The Charlie Hebdo attack (2015) raised questions about limits of free speech regarding religious satire.

Internet censorship varies globally, from minimal restrictions (UK, USA) to extensive controls (China, Saudi Arabia).

Wealth, poverty and human rights

Extreme poverty violates human rights by denying access to adequate food, clean water, healthcare, education and housing.

Christian teachings on wealth and poverty:

• "It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God" (Mark 10:25)
• Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus (Luke 16:19-31) — warning about ignoring the poor
• Early church practiced sharing resources (Acts 4:32-35)
• Commandment: "You shall not steal" implies property rights but also obligations to share

Christian responses include:

• CAFOD (Catholic Agency for Overseas Development) — providing emergency aid and long-term development
• Christian Aid — campaigning for trade justice and debt cancellation
• The Trussell Trust — operating food banks in the UK

Islamic teachings on wealth and poverty:

• Wealth is a trust from Allah; humans are stewards (khalifah)
• Zakah (obligatory charity) redistributes wealth
• Prohibition of riba (usury/interest) prevents exploitation
• The Qur'an warns against hoarding wealth (9:34-35)

Islamic responses include:

• Islamic Relief — humanitarian aid and development programs
• Muslim Aid — emergency relief and sustainable development
• Zakat foundations distributing obligatory charity
• Qard Hassan (interest-free loans) helping people escape poverty

Both religions teach that addressing poverty is a moral duty, not merely charity.

Worked examples

Example 1: "Explain Christian teachings about social justice." [5 marks]

Model answer:

Christians believe social justice is important because all humans are made in God's image (imago Dei), giving everyone equal value and dignity. Jesus taught "Love your neighbour as yourself" (Mark 12:31), which means treating everyone fairly and with respect regardless of background. The Parable of the Good Samaritan shows Christians should help anyone in need, even traditional enemies. The prophet Micah commanded believers to "act justly, love mercy and walk humbly with your God" (Micah 6:8), making justice a central religious duty. Many Christians follow liberation theology's teaching about God's preferential option for the poor, meaning they should actively work to end oppression and inequality.

Mark scheme guidance: Award 1 mark for each valid point, up to 5 marks. Points should include: reference to imago Dei, biblical teachings with examples, reference to Jesus's actions/parables, connection between faith and action, specific Christian organizations or movements.

Example 2: "Freedom of expression should have no limits." Discuss this statement showing you have considered more than one point of view. [15 marks]

Model answer structure:

Arguments agreeing (4-5 marks): Freedom of expression is a fundamental human right protected by Article 10 of the European Convention on Human Rights. Democracy requires citizens to express opinions and criticize government without fear. History shows censorship has been used to suppress truth and protect corrupt authorities. Artistic and creative freedom drives cultural development. The "marketplace of ideas" allows truth to emerge through open debate.

Arguments disagreeing (4-5 marks): Complete freedom would allow hate speech inciting violence against minorities. National security requires some censorship of military secrets and terrorist propaganda. Children need protection from pornographic and violent content. Many religious believers argue blasphemy causes deep offense and social division. Defamation laws prevent false statements destroying reputations. The harm principle suggests freedom should be limited when it directly harms others.

Religious perspectives (3-4 marks): Christians hold varied views. Some emphasize Jesus's teaching about love and forgiveness, suggesting tolerance even of offensive speech. Others believe protecting Christianity from blasphemy is legitimate. Muslims generally oppose depictions of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) as deeply disrespectful, though disagree about appropriate responses. Both religions value truth, but define harmful speech differently.

Conclusion with justified opinion (2-3 marks): While freedom of expression is vital for democracy and human rights, reasonable limits are necessary. The challenge is establishing proportionate restrictions that prevent genuine harm without enabling authoritarian censorship. Democratic societies should minimize censorship while protecting vulnerable groups.

Mark scheme guidance: AO1 (knowledge) = 6 marks, AO2 (analysis and evaluation) = 9 marks. Expect balanced arguments, religious teachings with examples, developed reasoning, and a supported conclusion.

Example 3: "Explain what Muslims believe about equality." [5 marks]

Model answer:

Muslims believe all humans are equal before Allah because everyone descended from Adam and Eve. The Qur'an teaches "the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous" (49:13), meaning piety matters more than race or status. Prophet Muhammad's final sermon declared no Arab has superiority over non-Arab and no white over black. The concept of Ummah emphasizes the global Muslim community where all believers are brothers and sisters. Zakah (obligatory charity) demonstrates economic equality by redistributing wealth from rich to poor, ensuring everyone has basic needs met.

Mark scheme guidance: Award 1 mark per valid point up to 5 marks. Expect: reference to creation/Adam and Eve, Qur'anic quotations, Prophet Muhammad's teachings, Ummah, Zakah or other practices promoting equality.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

• Confusing prejudice and discrimination — Remember: prejudice is an attitude/belief; discrimination is an action. Always explain the difference clearly when both terms appear in questions.

• Providing only secular views on human rights — WJEC exams require religious perspectives. Always include Christian and/or Islamic teachings with specific biblical or Qur'anic references.

• Vague biblical/Qur'anic references — Don't write "the Bible says" or "it says in the Qur'an." Give specific book, chapter and verse (Bible) or Surah number (Qur'an) wherever possible, or name the specific parable/teaching.

• One-sided answers to evaluation questions — "Discuss" and "evaluate" questions require multiple perspectives. Present arguments on both sides, include religious views, then offer a reasoned conclusion.

• Listing facts without explanation — Don't simply name organizations like CAFOD or Islamic Relief. Explain what they do and how this relates to religious teachings about justice or human rights.

• Ignoring contemporary examples — Use real-world examples (Charlie Hebdo, Equality Act 2010, refugee crises) to demonstrate understanding of how religious principles apply to modern issues.

Exam technique for Issues of Human Rights

• Command words matter — "Explain" requires developed points with reasoning (not just description). "Discuss" or "Evaluate" demands balanced arguments with multiple perspectives and a justified conclusion.

• Mark allocation guides timing — Spend approximately 1 minute per mark. A 5-mark question needs 5 distinct points or fewer well-developed points. A 15-mark question requires substantial development, balance, and religious perspectives.

• Include religious teachings and sources — Every answer should reference specific Christian or Islamic teachings. Use quotations where possible (even partial quotations earn credit). Connect teachings to the issue being discussed.

• AO1 vs AO2 marks — AO1 rewards knowledge and understanding (facts, teachings, examples). AO2 rewards analysis and evaluation (comparing viewpoints, assessing arguments, reaching conclusions). Extended answers require both.

Quick revision summary

Human rights are universal, inalienable protections ensuring dignity and fair treatment. The UDHR (1948) established international standards. Christianity and Islam both support human rights through teachings on imago Dei, Ummah, and justice, though interpretations vary. Social justice requires fair distribution of resources, addressed through Christian organizations like CAFOD and Islamic practices like Zakah. Prejudice and discrimination violate equality; UK law protects nine characteristics. Freedom of religious expression and freedom of speech face limitations when conflicting with other rights. Both religions emphasize stewardship and helping the poor as moral duties.